The National Liquor Traders Council has welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that no further lockdown restrictions will be imposed on alcohol sales in the country. During his address to the nation on Sunday night, the President announced that the country will remain on alert level one lockdown.
The sale of alcohol is permitted according to licence conditions, but may not be sold during curfew hours between midnight and four o’clock in the morning.
The council’s convener Lucky Ntimane says, “the national liquor traders welcomed the announcement by the president, to not restrict or ban alcohol. The sector calls on the president to maintain the status quo, whilst other sustainable means to contain covid-19 are explored. Liquor traders are committed to taking the lead on vaccinations. The alcohol industry has been the hardest hit with lockdowns. Whilst we welcome the announcement, we feel that humane interventions in future to deal with COVID-19.”
Tough times loom for restaurants and liquor industry:
Restaurants Association of South Africa
The Restaurants Association of South Africa says it will be working very closely with government over the next two weeks to ensure the sustainability of the industry and the keeping of COVID numbers down.
RASA CEO Wendy Alberts says, they are relieved that their doors will remain open over the festive season, especially after financial losses suffered during the year.
Alberts says Ramaphosa’s leadership is commendable.
“The industry appreciates the good leadership of president Ramaphosa. I’m trying times like this, we need the confidence of communication to keep the economy going. Key aspects that are being discussed, to allow the economy to flow while we keep each other safe. Going forward we need to work with government to prepare for these waves. COVID is going to be with us for a long time and we need to protect our country and economy and ensure we don’t have any switching on and off.” says Alberts.
Video: President’s address:
